Main menu

7 Things You Should Never Be Embarrassed to Discuss with Your Gynecologist in Arizona

Talking to your gynecologist in Arizona about odors, growths or sexual health may seem embarrassing, but it can be vitally important for your overall health and wellbeing. When it comes to sexual and reproductive health, it can be difficult to know what’s normal and what may be a sign of a potential health problem.

Even if you feel embarrassed about certain issues, trust that your gynecologist has seen and heard it all and is there to help you, not to pass judgment.

Here are seven things you should never hesitate to discuss with your gynecologist.

1. Painful Periods: For many women, cramps, breast soreness and headaches are just a few of the most common menstruation symptoms. But for others, period pain goes beyond cramps and can be incredibly severe. If your periods are extremely painful or have been worsening over time, it can be an indication of endometriosis or uterine fibroids. It’s important to speak with your gynecologist in Arizona about this, as there are many solutions that can make these conditions more manageable.

2. Vaginal Discharge/Odor: While vaginal odor can be a particularly uncomfortable topic, it’s important to talk to your gynecologist if there is a foul or fishy smell, or if there’s a change from your normal smell that seems to be lasting for a few days. While having an odor is normal, any changes or foul smells may be a sign of bacterial overgrowth or vaginal infection.

3. Swelling Bumps in the Vaginal Area: Noticing a growth in your vagina or around your labia can be troublesome. Bumps are often benign, but it’s important to have your gynecologist in Arizona perform an examination when you feel something. Genital warts may be visible for some time, but herpes lesions can heal over seven to 14 days, making it important to be seen when the outbreak is occurring.

4. Sexual Discomfort: It’s very important to talk to your doctor about sexual discomfort such as vaginal dryness and pain during sex. You may be uncomfortable bringing it up, but your gynecologist can help explain and treat your concerns.

5. Sexual History: Women often worry that their gynecologist is judging them if they ask how many sexual partners they’ve had, how old they were when they first had intercourse, if they’ve had any sexually transmitted diseases, or about sexual orientation and gender identity. These topics arise for several important reasons:

To determine risk factors for cervical dysplasia and HPV infection;

To discuss potential ramifications of past STDs;

To ensure that a patient is receiving the best possible care.

6. Urinary or Fecal Leakage: Experiencing urinary or fecal incontinence can be very stressful and take a toll on your quality of life. Many women will experience these symptoms after childbirth, particularly if they had a large baby or a vaginal delivery that required forceps or a vacuum. When women enter menopause, these symptoms may worsen. By talking with your gynecologist in Arizona, she or he can determine the proper treatment protocols and refer you to a pelvic floor disorder specialist if necessary.

7. Diminished Libido: While having a low libido is more common than most women realize, it’s important to speak with your gynecologist to discover the cause of your concern. Libido can sometimes be affected by medications you take, or it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition or a side effect of a known condition. In these situations, your gynecologist can determine what medical interventions may be necessary.

Remember, your gynecologist in Arizona can’t help you with a problem without knowing that it exists. So, don’t be embarrassed to bring up these issues – or any other problems – you don’t have to suffer in silence!